President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored 37 newly-promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday.
During an oath-taking ceremony in Malacañang, the President said the promotion of the generals and flag officers “is a clear reflection of how your expertise, your discipline, and commitment to the nation come together in pursuit of the welfare of our people.”
“This gathering reminds us that the true measure of service is not found in accolades or ranks or promotions; it lies in the fulfillment of your duty to uphold the integrity of our nation and to ensure the safety and security of every Filipino citizen,” the President said.
“And this year, you have shown what excellence in public service looks like,” he added.
For almost 89 years, the AFP has been the bedrock of sovereignty—a vital force that protects the land, the Filipino people, and freedom, he said.
The President also touted some of AFP’s accomplishments.
Last month, the AFP launched the Combined Coordination Center at Camp Aguinaldo in partnership with the United States Indo-Pacific Command.
He said this is a leap forward in the country’s modernization efforts, reinforcing interoperability with allies and strengthening the defense capabilities under the Mutual Defense Board Concept Plan.
“You have also concluded the eighth iteration of AFP Joint Exercise “DAGIT-PA” or Dagat-Langit-Lupa, sharpening your tactics, techniques, and procedures,” he added.
These exercises equip the AFP as they address evolving security threats and operationalize the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, the President said.
“Beyond military operations, you have been instrumental in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster response during some of our darkest hours. In the wake of Severe Tropical Storms Kristine, Nika, Super Typhoons Leon and Pepito, your swift and coordinated efforts saved many, many lives. These actions remind us that the AFP is a force of compassion,” the Chief Executive said.
“However, we continue to face complex and dynamic challenges—threats to our sovereignty, lawless elements that undermine peace, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. These require us to remain steadfast, resourceful, unyielding in our resolve,” he added.
In the same speech, President Marcos said the AFP, as stewards of the national defense, bears the solemn responsibility of “ ensuring the security of our land, of our seas, of our skies, our cyberspace.”
“In defending our waters, we must uphold international maritime laws, deepening our commitment to regional peace and cooperation,” he stressed.
“By fostering coordination amongst nations, we can safeguard stability while advancing our collective interests,” he said.
President Marcos said diplomacy rooted in strong legal foundations is the most effective instrument in navigating these endeavors.
“Equally, we must continue to empower our troops to serve our communities better. Train them to respond not only with skill but with empathy—ensuring that their actions reflect the highest ideals of public service. After all, the stars on your shoulders signify the responsibilities you now carry—the trust of the Filipino people, the security of our nation, and the future of generations yet to come,” he said.
As senior officers of the AFP, President Marcos said they should lead with honor, serve with integrity, and inspire others with your example. “Stand with your troops, stand for the Constitution, and above all, stand for the Filipino people.” | PND
